Heart-Healthy Crispy Homemade Falafels

Experience the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition with these Heart-Healthy Crispy Homemade Falafels. Made from protein-packed soaked chickpeas and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, these oven-baked falafels are a wholesome take on the classic Middle Eastern favorite. A fragrant mix of cumin and coriander lends authentic flavor, while a touch of olive oil ensures a crispy exterior without deep frying. Quick to prepare and baked to golden perfection in just 30 minutes, these falafels are perfect for a nutritious meal served in pita, atop a vibrant salad, or paired with creamy tahini sauce. Ideal for those seeking a high-fiber, plant-based recipe, these falafels are as delicious as they are heart-friendly.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Dried chickpeas
• 1 medium Red onion
• 1 cup Fresh parsley
• 1 cup Fresh cilantro
• 4 large Garlic cloves
• 2 teaspoons Ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Whole wheat flour

Directions

Step 1

Place 1 cup of dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with cold water, ensuring there is at least 2 inches of water above the chickpeas. Soak overnight for 12-24 hours.

Step 2

Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse thoroughly under cold water.

Step 3

In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, roughly chopped red onion, parsley, cilantro, peeled garlic cloves, cumin, coriander, baking powder, black pepper, and salt. Pulse until you achieve a coarse paste, making sure not to over-blend; the mixture should have some texture.

Step 4

Transfer the mixture to a large bowl, then add the olive oil and whole wheat flour. Mix well with a spatula or your hands until thoroughly combined.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6

Form the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 2 tablespoons per falafel, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7

Brush the tops of the falafels lightly with a bit more olive oil to help them achieve a crispy texture when baked.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then flip each falafel carefully and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the falafels are golden brown and crisp.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

Step 10

Serve the heart-healthy falafels warm with a side of tahini sauce, in whole grain pita bread, or over a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(507.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1309.6

Total Fat 56.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2920.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 164.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 43.5g	0%
Total Sugars 28.4g
Protein 46.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 457.5mg	0%
Iron 21.9mg	0%
Potassium 2822.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.8%

Protein: 13.7%

Carbs: 48.5%